Rakesh reached Russia last month for academics but was reportedly forced by the authorities to take up the gun and move to the battlefield in Ukraine. In a short time, he was pressurized to join the Russian army and sent to Ukraine. Later, the family received a photo showing Rakesh in a Russian army uniform, turning their fear into reality. In the beginning of this month, the MEA issued a statement asking Russia to stop recruiting Indians into its army. The MEA advised Indians not to accept any offers to join the Russian army because of the serious ‘risks and dangers’ involved.